As you sought relief from the recent scorching weather in air conditioned buildings and swimming pools, how many  gave a thought to the suffering of the sheep and cattle compelled to endure the full brunt of the suns rays in barren shadeless paddocks? 

For these pitiful creatures the last few days must truly have been hell on earth.

This is all part of the suffering we inflict on animals if we eat meat.

Centrelink computers, a weapon of mass destruction. Federal Health Minister Sussan Leys purchase of a high rise unit on the Gold coast, a weapon of unlimited wealth, with her attendance at taxpayers’ expense.

She has now apologised for her "error of judgement".

Error of judgement. Most would call it a blatant misuse of public money.  

In the case of Centrelink, if someone legitimately owes they should pay, but having to prove they are innocent because there is nobody left except computers to talk to puts a whole new emphasis on responsibility.

Handing in a Medicare form is bordering on a nightmare.

So why can politicians, who claim to have the public’s interest at the forefront, consistently get away with misuse of tax payer funds without a penalty, and not a monetary one.

Barnaby Joyce has said he regrets the errors of Centrelink, but is not sorry because the money handed out is Mum’s and Dad’s money.

So reading that comment, indicates that he doesn't care if innocent people are caught up in this debacle, so why don't you repay two $4000 dollar helicopter rides to a venue just 40km away.

But politicians let off with a pardon. What’s the difference?

Absolutely none.

How long is the Australian public going to put up with this middle finger salute from these born to rule bleeders of the public purse.

I reckon about another six months - if they last that long.

Fair is fair

Our esteemed Minister Dutton recently suggested that nationalisation tests should include cultural aspects.

Well, fair is fair. How about tests for the esteemed minister on ministerial responsibilities?

I should think a test for ministerial honesty would be first off the rank, e.g. Is Australia responsible for detention when we pay all the bills?

Then we would have a test for meeting Australia’s obligations of international treaties (e.g. refugees) that Australia has signed; a test for supporting human rights e.g. no physical and mental torture; a test for duty of care towards others in your care e.g. providing prompt and proper medical care; and a test for logical thinking, e.g. Is self-immolation a practical way to gain entry to Australia?

These test results would add up to a mark of competency as a minister. Sadly on current performance, the minister would fail miserably and be sent down.